Germany’s Merkel pledges support to Jewish life, Israel

Thursday, November 29, 2012 | by

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has renewed her pledge to stand up for Jewish life in Germany and for Israel’s right to self-defense.

Speaking Nov. 26 at the annual assembly of the Central Council of Jews in Germany — the first time a German chancellor visited the assembly — Merkel reiterated her longtime commitment to Israel’s security, which she had stated during the recent Gaza conflict. She said it was not only Israel’s right but its duty to protect its citizens from rocket attacks.

“Germany also has that right,” she added.

Merkel said she hoped a bill designed to protect the right to religious circumcision of boys by Jews and Muslims would be passed before the end of December. — jta